1992-S Roosevelt Dime Value: Most Recent Prices and Grading
The 1992-S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $3 in typical Proof condition to over $500 for high-grade silver versions. While a dime from 1992 might seem like regular pocket change, the “S” mint mark signifies a special collector’s edition that holds much more than its face value.
| Dime Variety | Approximate Value (PR69) | Approximate Value (PR70) |
|---|---|---|
| 1992-S Clad Proof | $3.00 – $5.00 | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| 1992-S Silver Proof | $8.00 – $12.00 | $40.00 – $65.00 |
Why the 1992-S Roosevelt Dime is Special
If you’ve found a shiny dime with a small “S” next to the date, you aren’t looking at a spending coin. In 1992, the United States Mint in San Francisco produced these specifically for collectors. Unlike the billions of dimes minted for circulation in Philadelphia and Denver, these were struck with polished dies to create a “Proof” finish.
If you are unsure whether your coin is a standard strike or a collector piece, using a free coin identifier app can help you distinguish the subtle differences in luster. The CoinKnow app is particularly helpful for beginners who want to verify mint marks and surface types instantly.
The 1992-S is unique because it was the first year since 1964 that the U.S. Mint offered a Silver Proof version of the Roosevelt Dime. This means that in 1992, there were two distinct versions of the “S” mint mark dime: one made of the standard copper-nickel “clad” material and another made of 90% silver. Identifying which one you have is the first step to determining the value.
Identifying the Clad vs. Silver 1992-S Proof Dime
Knowing the metal content of your coin is vital for accurate appraisal. The “Clad” version is composed of a copper-nickel alloy bonded to a pure copper core. If you look at the edge of a clad dime, you will see a distinct copper-colored stripe. These were sold in the standard 1992 Proof Set and are quite common among hobbyists.
The Silver version, however, was part of a special “Silver Proof Set.” These do not have the copper stripe on the edge; instead, the edge appears solid silver-white. Silver dimes are generally more desirable because they have intrinsic bullion value in addition to their numismatic worth. Many collectors use the CoinKnow app to log their silver holdings and track market changes.
For those curious about how these compare to regular business strikes, you can view the 1992-P Roosevelt Dime market prices to see why the “S” mint mark is valued differently. Generally, the proof coins carry a premium because they were never meant to be touched by bare hands or circulated in commerce.
| Feature | Clad Proof (Composition) | 90% Silver Proof (Composition) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2.27 grams | 2.50 grams |
| Edge Appearance | Visible Copper Layer | Solid Silver/White |
| Mintage Total | Approx. 2.8 Million | Approx. 1.3 Million |
Determining the Condition and Grade of Your 1992-S Dime
Proof coins are graded differently than regular coins. While a regular dime is graded from 1 to 70 (with 70 being perfect), proof coins almost always fall between PR60 and PR70. Because these coins were handled with care at the mint, collectors only pay significant premiums for “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) specimens.
A “Deep Cameo” coin has a heavy frosted appearance on the portrait of Roosevelt, which contrasts sharply against a mirror-like background. If your 1992-S dime looks dull or scratched, its value drops significantly. Many people find these coins in “junk” bins or old collections, and a quick scan with CoinKnow can help determine if the surface quality is worth a professional grading fee.
Professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC can be expensive. Unless your coin is a perfect PR70 Deep Cameo, it is often not worth the cost of grading. You can check the current 1992 Roosevelt Dime value guide to compare the cost of grading versus the potential profit. Most 1992-S dimes in PF69 condition sell for less than the cost of the plastic slab they are housed in.
Detailed Price Guide for 1992-S Roosevelt Dimes
The market for modern proof coins is highly dependent on technical perfection. Even a microscopic hair-line scratch can reduce the price of a 1992-S dime by half. For the Clad version, the prices remain relatively flat because mintage was high. However, the silver version fluctuates based on the current spot price of silver.
Investors often look for “Registry Set” quality coins. These are coins that have achieved a perfect 70 grade. In the case of the 1992-S Silver Dime, a PR70 DCAM specimen can occasionally fetch $100 or more at high-end auctions if the toning is attractive. Most everyday found coins, however, will fall into the $5 to $15 range.
| Grade | Clad Value | Silver Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR65 (Average Proof) | $1.50 | $6.50 |
| PR68 (High Quality) | $3.00 | $9.00 |
| PR69 (Near Perfect) | $6.00 | $15.00 |
| PR70 (Perfect) | $25.00 | $85.00+ |
Where to Sell Your 1992-S Roosevelt Dime
If you discover that you have a silver version or a perfect PR70 specimen, your next step is finding a buyer. Local coin shops are the most convenient option, but they typically pay wholesale prices (about 50-70% of the market value) because they need to make a profit. They are excellent for selling lower-value clad proofs in bulk.
For higher-value silver dimes, online marketplaces like eBay or GreatCollections are better. These platforms allow you to reach a national audience of collectors who are specifically looking for 1992-S dimes to complete their sets. Always take high-resolution photos of the front (obverse) and back (reverse) to show off the cameo contrast.
If you’re unsure of where to start, many collectors use apps to get a baseline price before talking to a dealer. Using a tool like CoinKnow helps you walk into a coin shop with confidence, knowing exactly what your 1992-S Roosevelt Dime is worth in today’s economy.
FAQ
Q: Is a 1992-S dime real silver?
A: It depends! There are two versions. The Clad version is made of copper and nickel, while the Silver version is 90% silver. You can tell by looking at the edge: if there is no copper stripe, it is likely silver.
Q: What does the “S” mean on a 1992 dime?
A: The “S” mint mark stands for the San Francisco Mint. In 1992, this mint only produced Proof coins for collectors, meaning these coins were never intended for general circulation.
Q: How much silver is in a 1992-S Silver Proof Dime?
A: A 1992-S Silver Dime contains approximately 0.0723 troy ounces of pure silver. Its “melt value” changes daily based on the silver market, but it is almost always worth at least $2 just for the metal content alone.
Q: Can I find a 1992-S dime in my spare change?
A: While rare, it is possible. Sometimes collectors pass away and their relatives unknowingly spend their coin collections, or kids take coins from a parent’s set. If you find one in circulation, it will likely be scratched and worth only a few dollars.
Q: What is the most expensive 1992-S dime ever sold?
A: Perfect PR70 Deep Cameo specimens of the silver variety have sold for over $500 in various auctions, though most certified PR70 silver examples sell in the $80 to $120 range.
